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The new policy is designed to preserve access to resettlement
for genuine refugees. Those screened-out will be given
temporary safe-haven in humane conditions.
UNHCR have supported the introduction of procedures
to determine refugee status, although I must say that they
have expressed concern over the timing of the introduction
of such a policy in Hong Kong. The screening in Hong Kong
will be carried out under UNHCR guidelines. We have invited
UNHCR to monitor the procedure; they will also have the
opportunity to be involved in appeals. We look forward to
UNHCR cooperation and assistance on legal and technical
matters associated with this process.
As part of the new policy, the Hong Kong Government
intend over the next 6-12 months to liberalise the regime in
centres which will house those granted refugee status
(including those who arrived before 16 June) pending
resettlement.
We believe that the new policy represents a proper
balance in the search for solutions to the difficult problem
of the Vietnamese boat-people. The rights of genuine refugees
are and will continue to be protected properly.
At the same
time there is a clear deterrent to those who wish to leave
Vietnam for essentially economic reasons.
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